Mudra Handpan

The name Mudra arose intuitively when Rafael Ortega, the founder, deeply connected with the Handpan. He realized that hands are fundamental in the art of playing, creating new “Mudras” for humanity.

The word “Mudra” has emerged in eastern cultures and can convey different meanings around the world. Generally, the meaning gravitates around three fronts:

  • Earthly Meaning:A hand gesture that can extend throughout the body.
  • Artistic Meaning: A form of Indian dance where dancers tell stories through their hands.
  • Spiritual Meaning: Seal / Key.
Rafael Ortega’s Journey

Rafael began his musical career at the age of 10 in 2001, as a drummer. Over time, he expanded his interest to other instruments like the guitar, piano, and didgeridoo. Playing in bands, his passion for music grew exponentially. He devoted himself to recording, studying composition and music production to enhance his skills.

Rafael developed an interest in areas like acoustics, psychoacoustics, soundscape, and 3D sound, exploring how sound impacts our mental state. He discovered the Handpan online but was not able to acquire it immediately. After years as a music producer, he noticed many musicians focused solely on commercial success, which did not appeal to him. In search of purpose, Rafael traveled for two years, and upon his return, he acquired his first Handpan. This encounter reignited his passion for music, inspiring him to study the instrument’s fabrication.

“The love and respect for this instrument make me a perpetual researcher, always seeking innovations and improvements,” says Rafael Ortega. “I chose to produce few high-quality units, believing this is the key to excellence.”

Rafael expresses gratitude to individuals and collaborators like Lucio Bonzatto, Antonio Arvind, Pedro Henrique Martins, and others, along with his family and friends, for their continuous support.

Lipe Araujo: Designer and Musician

Lipe Araujo, a graphic designer with a passion for music, has built an award-winning career in both design and music focused on meditation and relaxation. He has led wellness retreats and performances, always integrated with sound spirituality. Like Rafael, Lipe fell in love with the Handpan upon first hearing it.

“Being part of the Mudra Handpan Team is an honor. Working with Rafael, someone I admire, allows me to apply my experience with love in every process,” says Lipe.

The Mudra Team

At Mudra Handpan, we work tirelessly to improve the manufacturing of our instruments, ensuring unique and personalized products. Each Handpan is hand-crafted, packaged, and shipped with dedication.

For more information, visit:
mudrahandpan.com.

Acknowledgments

The success of Mudra Handpan would not be possible without the support of countless people. Rafael Ortega expresses his eternal gratitude to Lucio Bonzatto, Antonio Arvind, Pedro Henrique Martins, Vitor Luz, the creators of the Hang, and all collaborators who have shared knowledge about Handpan fabrication. Special thanks to family and friends, who have always provided emotional and psychological support.

Rafael is also grateful for having worked with amazing people over the years, such as Mariana Ortega, Charles Pimentel, Lucas Adonay, Wanderson Vieira, and Anderson “Cipó”.